170926-N-WH681-006 CARIBBEAN SEA (Sept. 26, 2017) Landing craft utilities prepare to depart the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) to transport personnel and equipment to Puerto Rico. Kearsarge is assisting with relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kaitlyn Eads/Released)